A few things I miss (and don’t) about a job

I miss everything and nothing about my job. And I’m fine with retirement after a few weeks.

I miss seeing some of the people as often as I did. But have replaced that and the time I had to spend with others I don’t miss, with people I like is nice.

I thought I would miss being challenged or having a manager to challenge me. Nope, I’m fine with this because I’ve often challenged myself more. And I like being in charge, for a change of pace.

I do miss being part of an organization and people that I thought were doing an important service for society. So I do have to find a way to replace that.

I do miss messing with people who think they know everything.

I miss my office chair, it’s more comfortable than my home one.

I miss watching the power plays, games, and maneuvering people do to get ahead at work.

I do miss having a second home but am relieved I no longer have to commute to it.

I do miss standing shoulder to shoulder with valued co-workers doing difficult things in difficult times. And of course, I miss the fun times and laughter we shared very much.

I miss the “thank yous” after helping people on the job. But I hope to replace that soon.

I don’t miss night shifts.

I miss the excitement of the daily news cycle and deadlines all day long causing a constant flurry of action and reactions.

In some ways, I miss the pressure of having a machine and keeping it running at all times, and if it had a hick-up we had better have it fixed before someone sneezed. No failure to publish under my watch.

I do miss sharing my knowledge with people. Helping them grow and avoid problems.

I don’t miss being stuck in Washington DC traffic or the streets trying to eat my car.

I do miss the prestige of The Washington Post nameplate. But hopefully, I’ll have enough time to be proud of the one I create for myself now.